The Genesis of Rhythm and Blues: Who Was the First RB Musical Artist?
Rhythm and blues, often abbreviated as RB or RnB, is a genre of popular music that originated in African-American communities in the 1940s. This vibrant style of music has its roots in the blues and jazz, reflecting the triumphs and failures of relationships, economics, and aspirations. However, pinpointing the first RB artist is quite a subjective and contentious issue.
The History of RB
The term 'RB' itself was initially used by record companies to market music predominantly to urban African Americans. It was characterized by a heavy insistent beat, which set it apart from the other musical genres of the time. This genre marked a significant evolution in American music, blending the soulful melodies of the blues with the driving rhythms of jazz.
The Evolution of RB
While the origins of RB are often credited to artists from the mid-20th century, the line between RB and earlier musical styles like jump blues and early rock and roll (often referred to as RR) was often blurry. Early RB artists such as Charles Brown came from the blues and jazz traditions. His musical style laid important groundwork for the evolution of RB.
Other key figures include Louis Jordan and Cab Calloway, both of whom played a significant role in developing the genre. Their music, with its insistent beat and soulful vocals, was instrumental in establishing RB as a distinct genre. Similarly, Louis Prima, known for his collaborations with Keely Smith and Sam Butera, also contributed to the early development of this musical form.
The Debate: Who Was the First?
Deciding who was the first RB artist is not a straightforward matter. In the early 1950s, there was significant overlap between RB and early rock and roll. Several records are considered pivotal in the evolution of RB.
One of the notable candidates is 60 Minute Man by Billy Ward and the Dominoes, featuring Clyde McPhatter. This was followed closely by “Rocket 88” by Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats. However, it should be noted that the Delta Cats were actually Ike Turner and his band, The Kings of Rhythm. Both these records were released in 1951, making them early significant contributions to the RB genre.
Choosing the very first RB artist is like picking a favorite child—hard to do! But artists like Wilson Pickett (aka the ‘Wicked Pickett’) played an important role in popularizing the genre. He may not have been the first, but he certainly stood out for his distinctive sound and impact.
So, while the debate over the first RB artist remains open, it is fascinating to explore the roots of this vibrant musical tradition and the contributions of these exceptional artists.